Debussy's Sonata for Flute, Viola, and Harp: An Analysis and Overview of the Flutist's Role in Chamber Music from the 18th to 20th Centuries
Date
2017-05
Authors
Solomon, Sarah
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Abstract
In this thesis, I analyze Sonata for Flute, Viola, and Harp by Claude Debussy (1862-1918) and contextualize the role of the flute in chamber music from the eighteenth to the twentieth centuries in order to better understand how my instrument has functioned in chamber music for the past three centuries. The analysis of this sonata identifies how Debussy used the flute in his early twentieth-century compositions. I explain the different compositional techniques Debussy uses in this piece with respect to six motives, as well as harmonic ambiguity, rhythmic complexity, and expressive indications. Some of the techniques Debussy utilizes in this sonata are unique to his compositional style, setting him apart from other composers of his time.
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Keywords
Debussy, Claude, sonata, flute, viola, harp, chamber, analysis, Honors College
Citation
Solomon, S. (2017). Debussy's sonata for flute, viola, and harp: An analysis and overview of the flutist's role in chamber music from the 18th to 20th centuries (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.